How to Implement Digital Transformation – With Minimal Disruption – Throughout Your Enterprise
As the AEC industry increasingly adopts modular construction techniques in building projects, it makes sense to consider how a similar approach might revolutionize the way enterprises adopt new technology. This train of thought fueled an insightful discussion between ProjectReady’s CEO, Joe Giegerich, Head of Development, Shaili Modi-Oza, Construction Innovation Agent at AE Partners, Aarni Heiskanen, and Vice President of Innovation at OAC Services, Inc., Salla Eckhardt. Over the course of this 40-minute interview, participants considered the potential of modular construction software solutions for the AEC and how, from an IT and information management perspective, such an approach could help streamline digital transformation without disrupting the organization’s operations.
Read on for greater insight into the benefits of a modular approach to construction software solutions and uncover some of the potential advantages of this approach. Or, if you’d rather listen to the interview, click on the player below to listen to this episode of the ProjectReady Podcast, “It’s A Modular World.”
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What Is Modular Construction And How To Apply ‘Modular’ To The Back Office?
Modular construction is a systematic approach to planning, designing, building, and maintaining a building. The primary goal is to create a repeatable process that standardizes elements of the construction, leading to increased efficiency and predictability. Modular construction is not a new concept, but it’s gaining global popularity due to its many advantages.
Modular construction focuses on industrializing the building process. It involves constructing building components in factory conditions rather than on-site, leading to productization and standardization. This, in turn, simplifies supply chain logistics and offers better predictability for project teams and facility managers.
Can Modular Construction Methods Be Applied To Technology Adoption?
During their recent interview, guests of the ProjectReady Podcast agreed that the way the industry is moving toward modules for building is how the AEC should approach the adoption of enterprise technology.
Enterprise systems in the AEC traditionally can be “monolithic” with organizations often trying to rely on a single platform to meet all their needs. However, this approach often leads to challenges when integrating various systems, especially when working with external partners, vendors, or clients who prefer different platforms for what they do best.
While many enterprise systems aim to offer all-in-one solutions, the reality is that, on the project site, different systems and tools are in use depending on an individual’s role on the project. All too often with all-in-one solutions, a number of features see little use. What is great for finance may not satisfy the needs of different departments. Therefore, this same concept must be embraced when it comes to technology.
How To Take A Modular Approach To Construction Management Technology
The first step when considering adopting a modular approach to construction technology is to look to the cloud and see which modern solutions can seamlessly integrate with each other – M365, Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Bluebeam, etc. The modular approach relies on interoperability between multiple systems, which is what will ultimately drive flexibility and adaptability while enabling companies to choose the best tools for specific project needs.
Heiskanen encouraged listeners to look at their legacy systems and see how they can be phased out, especially when considering modern solutions. Eckhardt emphasized the need for a data master plan, which can help organizations better manage their data and information. Creating a structured plan for and organization’s data helps employers identify user needs, synchronize data sources, and improve data quality. This approach also supports the use of cloud-based platforms and artificial intelligence, as data becomes more accessible and harmonized.
Participants also touched on the importance of user-friendly, visually appealing software solutions in an industry where outdated systems and interfaces are prevalent, to drive adoption of a modern approach to construction and enterprise technology. Because as great as integration can be, without an easy-to-use interface to interact with the data, users will always go back to what they know ignoring a new cumbersome solution.
What Are The Benefits Of A Modular Approach And Digitalization?
During the episode, the panel highlighted several advantages of adopting a modular approach in AEC enterprise technology:
- Interchangeability & “Best of Breed”: Modular enterprise technology would mean organizations and departments have more choice when it comes to the systems and platforms, they run to do their job more effectively and efficiently (ERP, CRM, etc.) knowing there will not be disruption to business continuity.
- Efficiency & Integration: Standardized modular systems improve efficiency by streamlining data integration and reducing complexity.
How Do Standards and Communication Impact Construction Management Across The Enterprise?
Standards play a huge role in the construction sector and the potential of achieving a modular approach to tech. ISO 19650, for instance, provides a foundation for industry-wide standards that can enhance collaboration and efficiency. The challenge, however, also lies in getting software developers to support these standards, as some view them as hindrances to maintaining competitiveness.
Heiskanen explained that while standards are crucial, they are often communicated in a complex and jargon-heavy manner. Simplifying the language around standards is essential to ensure broader adoption and understanding.
Eckhardt added that standards should be treated as industry laws, universally applicable and supported by all organizations. These standards would act as the foundation upon which organizations can build their specific guidelines and playbooks, allowing for more flexibility in applications.
Data Standardization and Integration
Different systems have varying workflows, attributes, and properties, making it challenging to synchronize data across platforms. Establishing consistent data points and properties is essential to enable seamless data integration, which can be critical for AI and other advanced technologies.
Taking a modular approach to AEC enterprise technology offers numerous advantages, like the benefits seen in modular construction. Standardization, user experience, data quality, and adaptability are all key factors driving the adoption of modular principles. As the construction sector evolves, embracing a modular mindset in technology can lead to increased efficiency, better data management, and improved project outcomes.
Podcast participants emphasized the need to consider the entire spectrum of their end users, from professionals in the field to those working in the back office, to create a seamless and efficient technology ecosystem. By doing so, organizations can thrive in a rapidly changing digital landscape and harness the full potential of their data and technology investments.
If you’d like to learn more about how ProjectReady is working toward a modular construction technology solution and how your organization can benefit, click here to speak with a ProjectReady professional today.